The effects of handling before and after weaning on the resistance of albino rats to later deprivation

To determine the effects of handling upon resistance to deprivation in adulthood, 2 groups of rats were "gentled" or picked up prior to weaning, 2 groups were treated similarly after weaning, and one received no handling. At 42 and 51 days of age all were deprived of food and water for 60 and 120 hours respectively. Rats handled before weaning were significantly heavier and showed significantly less mortality after deprivation than those handled afterwards or not at all. There were no differences between late-handled and non-handled groups. Amount of handling was not significant.